HIGHLIGHT's Lee Gikwang recently made a successful solo comeback with his first full-length album, "Predator." However, the artist has found himself in hot water as fans of SHINee's Taemin accuse him of plagiarizing the concept for Taemin's 2018 release, "Advice."

Gikwang's album, "Predator," quickly gained traction on domestic and international charts, with its title track climbing Korean music charts and reaching the top 5 in numerous countries. However, the music video for "Predator" drew comparisons to Taemin's "Advice," sparking controversy.

SHINee fans, known as Shawols, pointed out similarities in the cover design, concept photos, and music video visuals. They cited resemblances between Taemin's black mask with a chain net and Gikwang's similar accessory, as well as their body tattoos.

In response, Gikwang's fans, Lights, defended the artist by claiming that the concepts in question are common and that Gikwang and Taemin shared the same stylist, which could explain the likeness. However, Shawols expressed frustration with the suggestion that Taemin's concept was "common" and argued that the numerous coincidences between the two albums' details were implausible.

To further dispute the claim that Gikwang and Taemin had the same stylist, a fan reached out to stylist Kim Wook on Instagram, who confirmed that he was not working with Gikwang.

As the debate continues, fans on both sides remain divided over the plagiarism allegations. Gikwang's supporters argue that the similarities are coincidental or the result of shared resources, while Shawols maintain that the resemblances are too striking to be accidental.

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